NFC Notes: Lions, Panthers, Redskins, & Vikings

Lions

Mike Rothstein writes that the health issues Calvin Johnson has dealt with in recent years has opened the door for other receivers around the NFL to enter the discussion for the best receiver in the game.

As long as TEJoseph Fauria is healthy, Rothstein expects him to have a role in the team’s offense. However, Rothstein adds that this remains a big year for Fauria to show what he can do.

According to Rothstein, undrafted safeties Isaiah Johnson and Brian Suite both have a shot to make the 53-man roster this summer along with running backs Desmond Martin and Zach Zenner.

In the end, Rothstein expects the Lions to keep both Kellen Moore and Dan Orlovsky on their 53-man roster with the only question being: Who will be the No. 2 option?

Panthers

ESPN’s David Newton expects second-round WR Devin Funchess to have the biggest impact as a rookie among the team’s rookies.

Fifth-round pick Cameron Artis-Payne is currently seen as a complement to starting running back Jonathan Stewart.

However, should Stewart sustain an injury, Newton can see the Panthers elevating Artis-Payne to the No. 1 running back over Fozzy Whittaker and Darrin Reaves.